Lakers trade rumors: Four players worth trading Julius Randle for

Nerlens Noel

The idea of Nerlens Noel suiting up in the purple and gold as a Los Angeles Laker has its roots, dating back a few months. In December, reports emerged that LeBron James and Noel were plotting together to team up in Los Angeles. Of course, whether or not those reports are entirely true is yet to be seen.

However, the speculation did not stop there and Nerlens Noel joined the list of guys involved in Lakers trade rumors.  ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the Lakers and Dallas Mavericks discussed a potential Noel for Randle swap in January (h/t Silver Screen & Roll).

Although nothing initially came of the talks, it is still not out of the realm of possibility for either side. Dallas is reportedly focusing their efforts on obtaining Randle.

Nerlens Noel’s time with the Dallas Mavericks is likely up after the season anyway. Although he is currently hurt, when he is healthy, the Mavericks are still not giving him the playing time he may deserve. As a restricted free agent in the offseason, it makes no sense for Noel to return to Dallas.

Not to mention that the Lakers need a center next year with Brook Lopez’ contract expiring after the season. Noel is more than capable of being an everyday starting center and arguably has a higher ceiling than Lopez.

The icing on the cake is that the Lakers will benefit from Noel’s reduced playing time. His market value is going to be significantly lower than it would have been last offseason — fitting the Lakers’ budgetary plans.